Spring 2008

GOV 310L • American Government

Course Description

This course examines the foundations, principles, institutions, and processes of American government. While the focus of the course is on the federal government, we will also examine state political processes in Texas. The primary objective of this course is to prepare students to be informed participants in the American political system. Students will leave this course having gained essential knowledge about the origins, development, and practice of American and Texas politics at the federal, state, and local level.

Grading Policy

Course grades will be calculated as follows: Exam 1: 20% Exam 2: 20% Exam 3: 25% Research Paper: 20% In-Class and Take-Home Assignments: 15%

Texts

Fiorina et al, The New American Democracy. 5th Edition (New York: Pearson, 2007). Available for purchase at the University Co-op. Texas Politics - Available free at http://texaspolitics.laits.utexas.edu/ Other readings will be posted in Blackboard (http://courses.utexas.edu). These readings are marked with a * on the syllabus. Supplemental readings may be assigned as well.

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